Baby Hiking Gear To Simplify Your Adventures

Many people assume that hiking with a baby must be incredibly complicated – but the reality might surprise you. Hiking with a baby can be easier than hiking with a toddler and require less gear that you would expect.

Why? Well, babies are generally happy to go anywhere—provided that their basic needs are met. As long as they are dry, fed, and cozy, most babies will be perfectly content even on outdoor adventures. In fact, don’t be surprised if your little one takes some their best naps while you are out hiking!

Babies are also pretty portable, which means you can go longer distances and keep a steadier pace without having to stop every few minutes to herd a distracted toddler. Compared to managing an older child, hiking with a baby can actually feel simpler. Of course, the right baby hiking gear will make your adventure even smoother.

Here’s what you need to know before you hit the trail.

Essential Baby Hiking Gear You’ll Want to Bring Along

While hiking with a baby doesn’t require the latest, most expensive gear, a few essential items will make your trek more enjoyable. And good news—you probably already have most of these things at home!

1. Baby Carrier or Hiking Backpack

A solid baby carrier or hiking backpack is crucial for hiking with a baby. If you have a favorite baby carrier, take it for a longer walk before your hike to see how comfortable it feels over time. Features like good back support and breathable fabric are key to ensuring both of you are comfortable on the trail.

Babies under six months should be carried in your front using a soft-structured carrier. For older and heavier babies, a soft-structured carrier on your back or a hiking backpack will help you find better footing on the trail. Bonus: many hiking backpacks also offer storage space for your other essentials.

PRO TIP: Choose the baby carrier that is most comfortable for both you and your baby. In fact, I have hiked using a Happy Baby Carrier, a Kinderpack, and a Deuter carrier. Baby carriers are like jeans – they do not fit two people the same way. Before you invest on an expensive carrier, try as many as you can to check their fit. You can borrow from friends or try them at stores like REI.

2. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

You don’t need to buy specialized hiking clothes for your baby, but it is essential to dress them for the weather. Layers are your best friend when hiking with a baby – they help regulate temperature as you move through different environments or weather conditions.

Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking materials when it’s warm, and bring along cozy, insulated layers for when it’s cold (check out the three-layer system for dressing kids for winter weather). Remember, babies in a soft-structured carrier benefit from your body heat, so they may not need as many layers. On the other hand, babies in a hiking backpack (who are both separated from your body and less active) might need extra layers to stay warm.

PRO TIP: Hiking backpacks have brand-specific rain/wind covers that will help keep your baby protected from the elements. For babies on soft-structured carriers, there are generic babywearing covers that can be used to keep them dry and warm. In a pinch, I have also zipped up an oversized jacket over my front-packed baby to keep them dry and warm (and this jacket extender was a life-saver). Finally, this All-Weather Fleece Onesie from Therm Kids was one of our very favorite outer layers for almost all seasons, except the coldest of winter (use code CLARICE10 for 10% off).

3. Diapering Essentials

No need to lug around a bulky diaper bag when hiking with a baby. Pack only the essentials—1-2 diapers, a travel-sized pack of baby wipes, and a small changing pad if you have one (though honestly, I’ve used my jacket as a makeshift changing pad more than once). A gallon Ziploc for dirty diapers will contain any mess or odors until you can dispose of them properly.

PRO TIP: If your preferred baby carrier does not include storage space, pack a small lightweight backpack. You can wear the baby on your front and backpack on your back, or reverse them. A fanny pack is also a good choice!

4. Water and Snacks

Staying hydrated is important for everyone on the trail, especially if you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby. Pack plenty of water for yourself, and make sure to take hydration breaks. If your baby has started eating solids, pack a few easy-to-eat snacks. Baby-friendly fruit or veggie pouches are a great option because they’re convenient, low-mess, and easy to manage on the go.

If you’ve brought along a travel changing pad, it can double as a seat for you while feeding or for your baby while they enjoy their snack. Or, again, use your trusty jacket!

Tips for a Successful Baby Hike (Beyond the Gear)

Even with the right baby hiking gear, there are a few extra tips that will help make your hike more enjoyable.

Start with Shorter, Easier Trails

If it’s your first time hiking with a baby, start small. Choose a trail that’s easy to navigate and not too far from home. This will give you a chance to test your gear and gauge how your baby reacts to the experience. Plus, if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be too far from your car or other conveniences.

Go at Your Own Pace

One of the joys of hiking with a baby is that you’re mostly free to go at your own pace. Babies are usually pretty content as long as they’re comfortable, so make sure to take breaks when your baby needs a snack or diaper change. Hiking with a baby is about the experience, not about covering miles and climbing feet as quickly as possible.

Find Good Company

If going into the wilderness alone with your little one feels like too much – invite other moms with babies to join you. There is safety in numbers and you will get a chance to talk with another adult while your baby takes in the sights (or a nap)!

Be Flexible

Babies are unpredictable, so flexibility is key. You might need to cut your hike short, change your route, or stop more often than expected. That’s okay! Being adaptable ensures that both you and your baby have a positive experience, even if the day doesn’t go exactly as planned.

Conclusion: Get Out There with the Right Baby Hiking Gear

Hiking with a baby doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a few pieces of essential baby hiking gear and a little preparation, you and your little one can enjoy the great outdoors together. So, gather up what you already have at home, pack your backpack, and head out to the nearest trail for some fresh air and adventure. There’s nothing like sharing the beauty of nature with your baby by your side!

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